WearFragile, a skateboarding brand born from a deep passion for art and sustainability, started with a vision to blend these elements into a distinctive community brand.

Widely recognized within Rwanda’s hip-hop scene, WearFragile—often simply called ‘Fra’—was founded by Chris Manzi, Arsene Butare, and Davy Iyamuremye. Their ambition includes creating a private skatepark to serve as a community hub for skaters, aiming to nurture and expand the skateboarding culture in Rwanda.

The founders identified a gap in the market for streetwear that embodies the skateboarding lifestyle while embracing sustainable practices.

“Integrating skateboarding culture with eco-friendly fashion stems from our desire to make a positive impact. Skateboarding has always been about self-expression and challenging conventions, which aligns seamlessly with the principles of sustainability. Both involve breaking from the norm,” WearFragile co-founder Chris Manzi told The Rwandanews24.

“By merging these aspects, we aim to set a precedent and demonstrate that streetwear can be both stylish and responsible, paving the way for a future where eco-conscious choices are central to fashion,” he added.

WearFragile is making an impact in the streetwear fashion scene with its innovative collections. Combining artistic designs featuring Fragile stickers and the Fra insignia, the brand is dedicated to using sustainable materials.

But WearFragile’s vision extends beyond fashion. They aspire to cultivate a professional skater who will represent Rwanda on the global stage, especially with skateboarding now featured in the Olympics starting with Los Angeles 2028.

The brand actively engages with the youth through events and exhibitions that connect them with art and skateboarding. Their school-based programs aim to nurture young skateboarders. “We’re currently partnering with Green Hills Academy, the first high school to support our initiative to promote skateboarding culture within their community,” Manzi noted.

Participants provide feedback through forms, which WearFragile uses to track engagement and assess their growth.

Their pieces have been sported by notable rap personalities such as B-Threy, Dr. Nganji, Pro Zed, Ehlers, thedicekid, and 6ixtythre3. Additionally, since February, the brand has launched a recycling initiative, encouraging people to bring in old clothes for upcycling into new, wearable creations.

From a viewer’s perspective, Fra emerges as a brand that challenges conventional streetwear norms with its bold creativity. Their designs range from intricate and unconventional to clean and minimalistic, reflecting their willingness to push boundaries. Rather than seeking widespread fame, Fra emphasizes community engagement.

Their creations are frequently seen by rap artists during performances and dedicated skateboarders. Each visual release or showcase radiates youthful energy, embodying the founders’ mission to make the youth look effortlessly stylish.

By Alphonse Munyankindi